Energy Minister visits Frome

EDWARD Davey, the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, visited Frome’s hydro-electric mill at Tellisford last week. The visit saw the minister join David Heath MP at the hydro-electric mill at Tellisford, where enough energy is produced to power more than sixty houses. The mill, renovated in 2002, dates back to the Domesday period and uses screw turbines to create renewable energy. Cllr Sam Phripp, Mendip District councillor and County Council candidate also welcomed the Secretary of State to the area on Thursday. “It was really great for Edward to pay us a visit,” said Sam, who is the Liberal Democrats candidate for Frome North division. “With applications for wind turbines and solar panel farms in the area, it was good to speak directly to him and pass on residents’ concerns.” Edward Davey then joined Alex Brown, the Liberal Democrat candidate in Rode & Norton St Philip. With a by-election being sparked by the resignation of Cllr Matthew Ellis (Con), Alex is attempting to speak to as many local people as possible before they go to the polls on May 2nd. “It was very exciting to meet Edward, and it was good for him to speak to people in Norton about their concerns,” said Alex. “I’ve lived in Rode all my life, and it’s good to know that the views of rural communities are being put across.”